Electric Vehicle Conversion - Elements of A Conversion

Elements of A Conversion

• Almost any vehicle can be converted to electric. Many people prefer to pick a vehicle that is light and aerodynamic in order to maximize distance traveled per battery charge. There must also be adequate room and load capacity for batteries.
• The battery pack, which provides a source of electrical power. The most commonly available and affordable batteries are lead-acid flooded type. Next are the AGM (Absorption Glass Mat) sealed maintenance free batteries, a little more powerful and expensive. Then there are the more exotic batteries like Ni-MH and Li-ion; more difficult to find but light and longer lasting, maintenance free, and much more expensive. The new lithium batteries are showing some promise for EVs in the near future.
• The charger which restores energy to the batteries (which may be mounted within the vehicle or at a special charging station at some fixed location)
• The power controller, which regulates the flow of energy between the battery and the electric motor(s), controlled by an electronic throttle.
• One or more electric motors and their mechanical attachment to the driveline
• Power conductors connecting the battery, controller, and motor(s)
• Accessory equipment to power auxiliary equipment such as power brakes and heating system
• Control circuitry and equipment to allow control and interlocking of the various components
• Instrumentation specific to the operation and maintenance of the conversion